President Mohammad Muiz of the Maldives.file photo
As tensions strain bilateral relations between India and the Maldives, the Maldives Tourism Minister has invited Indian tourists and emphasized their important role in supporting the tourism-dependent economy of the archipelago.
Minister Ibrahim Faisal underlined the enduring historical ties between the Maldives and India and expressed the government’s determination to foster cooperation. He urged Indian travelers to participate in Maldives tourism and highlighted the important role of Maldives in the country’s economy.
“We have a history. Our newly elected government also wants to cooperate (with India). We will always promote peace and a friendly environment. The people and the government of India As the Minister of Tourism, I would like to invite people of India to come and visit the Maldives. Our economy depends on tourism,” Faisal said. told PTI in Dubai.
The call for Indian tourists comes amid a backlash from the Maldives after three Maldivian officials made derogatory remarks about India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Since then, a social media campaign calling for a boycott has led to a significant drop in tourism, and India has fallen from the top of the rankings to sixth place.
According to statistics from the Ministry of Tourism, the number of Indian tourist arrivals in the first four months of this year fell by 42% compared to the same period last year. The tension in relations stems from President Mohamed Muiz’s government’s pro-China stance, including the decision to withdraw Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives.
President Muiz, who was elected on the basis of an “India out” policy, has denounced Indian interference and pursued measures to reduce dependence on India in various areas. This includes agreements with other countries regarding medical services, food supplies, and military equipment.
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